South Carolina Pastor Accused of Disturbing Child Abuse Allegations

Myron Chorbajian and his wife Kathleen face charges for alleged abuses dating back to the 1980s

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

A former South Carolina pastor named Myron Chorbajian is accused of a range of disturbing child abuse allegations, including sexual abuse, forcing children to eat trash and bury a dog he killed, and other physical abuse. His wife Kathleen Chorbajian is also charged for allegedly knowing about some of the abuse and failing to intervene or report it.

Why it matters

These allegations against the Chorbajians highlight the ongoing issue of child abuse, especially within religious institutions and families, and the need for stronger reporting and accountability measures to protect vulnerable children. The case has also drawn attention to the challenges victims face in coming forward with abuse claims, particularly when the perpetrators are in positions of power and trust.

The details

According to arrest warrants, Myron Chorbajian is accused of sexually abusing his female children, forcing them to eat trash and dirt, and making one child bury a dog he had killed in front of them. He also allegedly punched a victim in the face, forced them to sleep in a trash can and eat its contents, and beat another child with a belt until they lost consciousness. Kathleen Chorbajian is charged with knowing about some of the alleged sexual abuse and physical abuse but failing to intervene or report it.

  • Myron and Kathleen Chorbajian were arrested in May 2025 after a child abuse investigation was launched in April 2025.
  • The alleged abuse incidents date back to the 1980s when Myron was a pastor at 1st Southern Methodist Church in Greenville, South Carolina.

The players

Myron Chorbajian

A former pastor at 1st Southern Methodist Church in Greenville, South Carolina, who is accused of a range of disturbing child abuse allegations against his adopted children.

Kathleen Chorbajian

The wife of Myron Chorbajian, who is charged with knowing about some of the alleged abuse and failing to intervene or report it.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Kathleen Chorbajian to be released on bond.

The takeaway

This case underscores the critical importance of vigilance, reporting, and comprehensive investigations to uncover and address instances of child abuse, even in trusted community institutions and families. It serves as a sobering reminder that abuse can occur in any setting, and that protecting vulnerable children must be an unwavering priority.